Nearly 100 Former Leaders Urge Current Governments to Strengthen Global Cooperation
Event summary
- Around 100 former heads of state and government issued a joint call for renewed international cooperation on September 21, 2026.
- New global polling shows 57% of people across 34 countries support international cooperation despite rising nationalism.
- The Principles of Cooperation initiative aims to establish a common foundation for addressing global challenges like climate change and AI.
- The Rockefeller Foundation supported the initiative through its Build the Shared Future effort.
The big picture
The call for renewed international cooperation comes amid a fracturing global order, where narrow interests increasingly prevail over common purpose. The initiative seeks to rebuild trust and bridge differences in a multipolar world, addressing challenges like climate change, pandemics, and emerging technologies. The Rockefeller Foundation's involvement underscores the philanthropic sector's role in fostering equitable partnerships between the Global North and South.
What we're watching
- Governance Dynamics
- How current leaders will engage with the Principles of Cooperation initiative and translate it into practical action.
- Public Sentiment
- Whether the 57% public support for international cooperation will translate into political action amid rising nationalism.
- Strategic Alignment
- The pace at which diverse regions and political traditions can align around common principles for cooperation.